Egypt Bans Niqab in Schools

The Egyptian government has decided to prohibit the wearing of the niqab in schools during the upcoming academic year, which is set to begin on September 30. Egyptian Minister of Education Reda Hegazy confirmed that head coverings are optional, provided that they do not obscure the student's face, and that no models or illustrations representing head coverings that violate this stipulation will be accepted, while adhering to the color chosen by the relevant education directorate. The minister added that parents must be aware of their daughter's choice and that her decision must be made freely, without any pressure or coercion from anyone or any entity other than the parent, and verification of the parent's awareness of this must be ensured.